By NITISH S. RELE – motoringflorida@gmail.com

Since its 2020 debut, the Hyundai Palisade has received rave reviews and accolades from the media and its buyers alike. It is no wonder then that the Korean carmaker introduced the hybrid to the second-gen 2026 full-size SUV along with a total overhaul of its length, wheelbase, height and width.

Unlike the regular Palisade, which gets a sole 3.3-liter V-6, the hybrid vehicle is equipped with two electric motors and a 1.65 kWh lithium-ion battery. They are mated to a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4-cylinder engine putting out a healthy 329 horsepower @ 5800 rpm and 339 pounds-feet of torque. That’s 15 percent more hp and 27 percent torque boost than the gasoline-only ride. Also into the mix is a 6-speed auto gearbox with paddle shifters instead of the 8-speed with tow capacity at 4,000 pounds (1,000 fewer) compared to the regular trim. Thanks to a MacPherson strut front and a multilink rear suspension, cruising over rough bumps on the roads is more than tolerable. Further ensuring that occupants get a smooth and solid ride are sound-damping materials such as thicker glass and absorption pads. Steering response via a motor driven power rack-and-pinion is spot-on with exceptional on-center feel and respectable feedback.

It may be a boxlike vehicle but the upright vertical LEDs and DRLs flanking a horizontal center light bar and mammoth black grille are a standout. A huge, curved screen serves as infotainment and digital instrument clusters, each 12.3 inches. Calligraphy embossed on front seat backrests is an instant indication that this is Palisade’s top-level model opening up 161.9 cubic feet of space. New for 2026 are wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, front/rear dash cam and a UV sterilization tray to disinfect a phone, wallet or keys. During those long vacations, first- and second-row seat passengers can take advantage of Relaxation mode or lounging. Three-zone auto a/c, 14-speaker Bose audio system, eight-way cooled/heated driver and front-passenger power Nappa leather seats, suede headliner, dual-pane sun roof, wing-out headrests for second-row heated/cooled Captain’s chairs, digital rearview mirror and head-up display are standard. 

Safety features include 10 airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, vehicle stability/traction control, front/rear crumple zones, surround-view monitor, daytime running lights and tire pressure monitoring system. For extra security, the Hyundai SmartSense comes with forward- and rear-cross traffic collision avoidance, safe exit and lane keep/follow assists; blind spot collision and front/reverse/side park distance warnings; and smart cruise control.

Undoubtedly, the attractive, elegant and durable Palisade deserves all the praise and awards it has received so far. The addition of the hybrid to the lineup transforms this full-size SUV into a satisfying mix of people-hauling practicality, price and fuel economy.

PALISADE (CALLIGRAPHY, HTRAC AWD)

Tires: 265/45R21

Wheelbase: 116.9 inches

Length: 199.4 inches

Width: 78 inches

Height: 69.5 inches

Fuel capacity: 18.2 gallons

City/hwy/comb: 29/30/29 mpg

Base price: $58,780

Price as tested: $61,625

Weight: 5,016 pounds

Web site: www.hyundai.co